No Name Calling Week 2026: Things that are not “just jokes”
Every year, No Name-Calling Week invites us to pause and reflect on the power of our words. While name-calling is often associated with bullying in childhood, it doesn’t stop there. It shows up in adult relationships, families, workplaces and even in the way we talk to ourselves.
Many harmful comments are quickly dismissed as “just jokes.” But when words are used to hurt, minimize or shame, the impact can linger long after the moment has passed.
Why “just joking” isn’t always harmless
Humor is a powerful way to connect and build relationships. But when humor comes at someone else’s expense, it can erode trust. What feels like a joke to one person may feel like rejection, criticism or invalidation to another.
Below are common phrases often brushed off as jokes that can actually cause real emotion and pain:
“You’re Too Sensitive.”
Saying this after a joke that hurt someone’s feelings dismisses their emotions, rather than acknowledging them. This popular phrase teaches people to doubt their feelings or suppress them instead of explaining to that person how their statement hurts.
This phrase hurts because:
It invalidates emotions
Shuts down communication
Encourages emotional disconnection
“I Was Just Joking.”
Typically said right after someone mentions that their joke hurt their feelings. By defaulting to “just joking,” this phrase deflects accountability and turns it on the other person. While the person's intention may not have been to hurt feelings, acknowledging the impact of their words (rather than the intent) is a key part of healthy communication.
This phrase hurts because:
It minimizes emotional impact
Deflects responsibility
Prioritizes intent over repair
“That’s Just How I Am.”
While this is an honest statement, it’s also one that excuses hurtful behavior rather than owning up to it.
This phrase hurts because:
It normalizes disrespect
Discourages personal growth
Prevents meaningful change
“You’re Being Dramatic.”
This phrase completely deflects accountability and dismisses that person's feelings and emotions. Labeling someone’s emotions increases shame and makes people feel unsafe for being vulnerable.
This phrase hurts because:
It invalidates feelings
Increases self-doubt
Escalates conflict
“Can’t You Take a Joke?”
This phrase shifts blame onto the person who was hurt rather than addressing the behavior itself.
This phrase hurts because:
It shifts responsibility
Undermines trust
Discourages honest feedback
What healthy communication looks like:
Healthy communication doesn’t mean avoiding honesty, conflict or never joking again. Rather, healthy communication means describing behaviors instead of labeling people, expressing feelings without attacking and taking accountability when harm is caused.
You can still be direct, funny and authentic without being harmful to others.
How Therapy Can Help
Unlearning harmful communication patterns takes intention and often support. Therapy can help you recognize unconscious language patterns, learn healthier ways to express emotions, practice accountability and build trust.
At Broward Therapists, we believe respectful language is foundational to mental and emotional well-being. If you’re ready for additional support, Broward Therapists is here to help you build healthier communication and stronger relationships.